Thousands protest in St. Paul

Thousands of people are protesting here in St. Paul, making it difficult to get around.

I walked by a building with smashed in windows, one of which looked like a bullet had poked through it. Police are in riot gear, and the Star-Tribune reports that 53 have been arrested so far.

Most of the TVs are showing waves from Gustav crashing against the coast, but the Xcel Center is relatively quiet.

First Lady Laura Bush was greeted with a standing ovation, where she said, "Our first priority for today and in the coming days is to ensure the safety and well-being of those living in the Gulf Coast Region. And to all of those living in the Gulf States, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you."